Young people experience a vast number of changes as they move towards independence. Their beliefs and values may conflict with the parents’, they may develop interests that you don’t understand or quit hobbies that you encouraged in their younger years. Try to see this in a positive light as they are becoming their own person.

Right now your teen might be facing into stressful exams or requesting to go on a summer holiday or to a music festival with friends. As a parent, it can be a struggle deciding how much independence to allow. Bear in mind that there is no ‘one size fits all’ rule.

You will always feel responsible for your child’s wellbeing and safety, no matter their age. Rules are important to create boundaries and respect but some are more important than others, e.g. not getting into a car with someone who has been drinking alcohol is always worth arguing over but cleaning up an untidy bedroom may be best to ignore.